If there is a brand that is synonymous with New Zealand wine it’s Villa Maria. The company’s history is long with its very first wine bottled and sold in 1962, harvested from a one-acre block in Māngere, Auckland. The owner and founder George Fistonich leased the land from his father at the tender age of 21. The young man grew alongside his business and Villa Maria is nowadays globally recognised as a quality New Zealand wine brand. George became Sir George Fistonich, acknowledged for his contribution to New Zealand wine.

Through the years, Villa Maria has been innovative and forward thinking. In 1995 it was a founding member of Sustainable Winegrowing New Zealand. In 2001, it was the first major wine label to move every wine in their portfolio to screw cap to protect and ensure consistency of quality.

Undoubtedly the biggest change of all came when Villa Maria was acquired in 2021 by Indevin Group. With a focus mostly on the sale of bulk wine, it sparked concerns within the industry as to whether Villa Maria would be subsumed by the largely brandless company. As time has gone on it’s become clear that this beloved brand isn’t going anywhere. It continues to line shelves and be consumed with gusto all over the world and, for this, wine lovers are glad.

A lovely inciting nose resplendent with white florals and citrus against aromatic herbal savoury elements that add complexity. The palate is multi dimensional, well balanced and elegant with a tight bright acidity that gives the wine drive and a long and refreshing finish. The very definition of best buying.